"DoDDS-K awards aren't just for teachers," said USFK Education Liaison Officer Cynthia Flagg. "Awardees range from custodians all the way to principals, counselors and teachers. They all have a part in the education of our children."

Gen. Sharp presented the awards, but not without first expressing the positive impact the employees make to ensuring U.S. government personnel can perform daily missions while their children are being cared for and educated.

"We appreciate you serving in Korea to teach the children of those who serve our nation so far away," he said. "You enable our Servicemembers to do the jobs that they signed up to do in defending America."

Sharp said Servicemembers know their children are getting a quality education while they are serving in Korea "because DoDDS is full of professionals, like those receiving awards today."

The ceremony also recognized those who have served with DoDDS-K the longest. Twelve employees have served between 20-30 years.